Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Regional Summary Report | July 2020
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Regional Summary Report | July 2020
The COVID-19 pandemic is dramatically altering how people live, work and meet their critical needs. In order to provide snapshots of these impacts over time, CARICOM launched a second round of the Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security and Livelihoods Impact Survey. Implemented by the World Food Programme, the short online survey was circulated via social media, email and text message. This summary analyses data collected from 22 June to 1 July 2020. It builds on findings from the first survey implemented in April 2020.
5,708 Respondents
Number of Respondents < 100
22
Countries & Territories
69|21% Female|Male
41
Summary •
People throughout the Caribbean continue to experience disruptions to their livelihoods. Over half of respondents reported impacts to pursuing their livelihoods.
•
Compared to April, while there is better access to markets, there appears to be greater job loss, higher food prices and poorer food consumption.
•
The survey results coupled with poverty data suggest that 2.9 million people are now estimated to be food insecure compared to 1.2 million in April; however, the number of severely food insecure remains steady at slightly more than 400,000.
•
Job loss and reduced income were reported by 7 out of 10 respondents. The main worry of respondents is unemployment, followed by meeting food and other essential needs.
•
Most respondents have changed their diet, with nearly one-third skipping meals, eating less or going a day without eating.
•
Detrimental impacts to income and food consumption appear more widespread among low-income families, as well as those responding in Spanish, single parents and mixed households.
•
More respondents could consistently access markets compared to April. While key items are usually available in stores, 78% of respondents indicated increases in food prices.
•
How people shop has not returned to normal. Lower income respondents mainly report buying cheaper/less preferred food, while higher income ones more commonly purchased in bulk.
•
The amount of time spent on childcare and domestic work has increased since the pandemic began, particularly for women.
•
While the survey contributes to a better overview of impacts, the data is not representative, and the use of a web-based questionnaire limits inputs from those without connectivity.
Average age
100 - 300 300 - 500 > 500
Demographics of respondents
Number of respondents | By country Barbados Trinidad and Tobago
16% 899
Dominica
8% 474
Belize
7% 370
Aruba
6% 339
Saint Lucia Jamaica
5% 301 4% 242
Guyana
3% 176
Curacao
3% 171
Bermuda
3% 168
Sint Maarten
3% 166
Antigua and Barbuda
3% 166
Grenada
3% 164
Saint Kitts and Nevis
2% 135
Cayman Islands
2% 120
Saint Vincent and the Grenadine
2% 114
Turks and Caicos
2% 106
Suriname
2% 99
Bahamas
2% 97
British Virgin Islands
2% 88
Anguilla Montserrat
Age and sex 21% 1198
25 and under
567
253
15% 26 - 40
1566
733
42% 41 - 60
1334
567
34% Over 60 9%
326
Female
167
Male
1% 57 1% 29 Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 2
Demographics of respondents Household composition Immediate family*
Mixed**
Main income sources 64%
Respondents were asked to indicate the main income source(s) for their household. Multiple choices could be selected.
15%
69%
Salaried work Single parent
12% Own business/trade
Alone
17%
9%
*Immediate family includes partner, children and grandparents **Mixed households are composed of immediate family members, other relatives as well as non-family members
Informal daily/casual labour
14%
Family and friends
11%
Government assistance
5%
Petty trade
3%
Remittances
3%
Perceived income level Respondents were asked to compare their householdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s income with the rest of their country
Well below average
15%
Below average
26%
Average Above average Well above average
37% 15% 6%
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 3
MARKETS Access to markets % of respondents facing a time in the 7 days prior to the survey when they were unable to access markets 37% 27%
June 2020
April 2020
Most respondents had reliable access to stores and markets, with 27% facing a time when they were unable to access markets in the week prior to the survey. Responses varied somewhat across the region, though not as dramatically as the April 2020 survey. Over one-third of people responding from Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Bermuda, Jamaica and Belize faced a time when were unable to access markets, compared to 9-32% of those from other places. There were clear differences across age groups and income levels. Respondents who described their income as well below average appear to have greater difficulties, with 54% reporting not being able to access stores at some point in the preceding week, compared to 9% of respondents classifying themselves as having well above average income. Compared to respondents with salaried income in the household, people with less stable income sources were more likely to have a time when they were unable to access markets. Younger respondents also faced such a time when they were unable to access markets (35% of those aged 25 and under, compared to 11% over 60).
% of respondents facing a time in the 7 days prior to the survey when they could not access markets (Countries >100 respondents) Under 20% 20-35%
Over 35%
“I would usually get assistance from family members, but they are now unemployed. I have to be very wary when shopping of the food prices and sometimes had to leave out some groceries.” “I am unemployed and I am planting my vegetables. I am also spending less and buying the basics.”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 4
MARKETS Access to markets In the past 7 days, was there a time when your household could not access the markets? By sex
By perceived income level
Female
28%
72%
Well below average
54%
46%
Male
26%
74%
Below average
38%
62%
Average
17%
83%
Above average
10%
90%
Well above average
20%
80%
yes
no
By age group 25 and under
35%
65%
26 - 40
32%
68%
41 - 60
23%
77%
Over 60
11%
89%
yes
no
By household composition Mixed
39%
61%
Single parent
31%
69%
Immediate family
25%
75%
Alone
23%
77%
yes
no
yes
no
By income sources Petty trade
45%
55%
Informal daily/ casual labour
44%
56%
Friends and family
44%
56%
Government assistance
31%
69%
Remittances
30%
70%
Salaried work
24%
76%
Own business/trade
15%
85%
yes
no
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 5
MARKETS Reasons for limited market access For those who faced challenges accessing markets, financial limitations were cited as the main reason, followed by concerns about leaving the house due to the virus. In contrast, respondents in April 2020 were mainly constrained by movement restrictions. While many governments had lifted or reduced curfews and commercial restrictions by June 2020, movement restrictions and store closures were also commonly cited as factors hampering market access, though to a lesser extent than in April. In both survey rounds, some cited transport limitations as the obstacle. The reasons for limited market access were relatively consistent between men and women and across age and income groups.
For those that faced a time when they could not access markets in the past 7 days, the main reasons were… Multiple choices could be selected. * Other
45%
By sex Other*
Security concerns
Concerned about leaving the house
Transport limitations
Movement restrictions
Market/grocery stores were closed
11% 25% 24%
Concerned about leaving the house
22%
Movement restrictions
32% 17%
Markets/grocery stores closed
Transport limitations
For those that faced a time when they could not access markets in the past 7 days, the main reasons were…
25%
* For the June survey round, nearly all respondents who selected “Other” expressed financial limitations. For April, most cited long lines at the markets/stores.
15% 11%
Security concerns
7% 7%
Adult members of the household were sick
3% 2%
Female Male
“Increased food stock purchases to avoid being caught unawares by any further lockdown.” “slight inconvenience is the supermarket lines no matter the day or time of day. Can't seem to find the sweet spot where there's little to no persons present. Otherwise I'm not negatively impacted”
Jun-20 Apr-20
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 6
MARKETS Reasons for limited market access For those that faced a time when they could not access markets in the past 7 days, the main reasons were… By age
By household composition
Other*
Other*
Concerned about leaving the house
Security concerns
Transport limitations
Movement restrictions
Market/grocery stores were closed
25 and under 26 - 40 41 - 60 Over 60
Concerned about leaving the house
Security concerns
Transport limitations
Movement restrictions
Market/grocery stores were closed
* For the June survey round, nearly all respondents who selected “Other” expressed financial limitations.
Alone Mixed Single parent Immediate family Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 7
MARKETS Reasons for limited market access For those that faced a time when they could not access markets in the past 7 days, the main reasons were… By perceived income level
By income sources
Other*
Other*
Security concerns
Concerned about leaving the house
Transport limitations
Movement restrictions
Below average Average
Transport limitations
Movement restrictions
Market/grocery stores were closed
Market/grocery stores were closed
Well below average
Concerned about leaving the house
Security concerns
* For the June survey round, nearly all respondents who selected “Other” expressed financial limitations.
Salaried work Own business/trade Informal daily/casual labour
Above average
Petty trade
Well above average
Government assistance Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 8
MARKETS Shopping behaviour COVID-19 is changing where and how people make purchases, with 86% of respondents indicating that they have changed their shopping behaviour compared to before the pandemic. This is nearly the same finding as the April 2020 survey, suggesting that people have not returned to their normal shopping routines, despite reduced restrictions. How people are changing their shopping appears to be shifting. Whereas in April by far the most cited change was buying larger quantities, in June more respondents opted to purchase cheaper or less preferred foods. More respondents also are buying smaller quantities than usual. Both shifts were far more common among respondents reporting to have below or well below average income, whereas buying larger quantities than usual was more common among respondents reporting to have above or well above average income. People in these higher income groups also were more likely to have started or increased the use of online ordering or delivery services. While most changes in shopping were similar between women/men and across age groups, respondents over 60 less frequently reported buying cheaper or less preferred items when compared to the other age groups. Most respondents across the board are also spending less time shopping.
Respondents who reported a change in shopping behaviour are… Multiple choices could be selected. 45%
Buying cheaper or less preferred foods
23% 37%
Buying larger quantities than usual
Buying smaller quantities as usual
74% 30% 9% 27%
Going to different stores
Used online delivery services *
34% 14%
Jun-20 Apr-20
*This option was not provided for the April 2020 survey.
“Loss of income. Can’t really go shopping” “I would usually get assistance from family members, but they are now unemployed. I have to be very wary when shopping of the food prices and sometimes had to leave out some groceries” “I have to adapt to shopping in bulk due to stores having physical distance rules and hence long queues” “Short of salary. Have precautions of how to go easy with the money. Not buying what is not necessary” “I am unemployed and I am planting my vegetables. I am also spending less and buying the basics.”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 9
MARKETS Shopping behaviour
Respondents who reported a change in shopping behaviour areâ&#x20AC;Ś By household composition
By age group Buying smaller quantities as usual
Buying smaller quantities as usual
Started or increased the use of online ordering or delivery services
Buying cheaper or less preferred foods
Buying larger quantities than usual
Going to different stores
Started or increased the use of online ordering or delivery services
Buying cheaper or less preferred foods
Buying larger quantities than usual
Going to different stores
25 and under
Alone
26 - 40
Mixed
41 - 60
Single parent
Over 60
Immediate family
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 10
MARKETS Shopping behaviour Respondents who reported a change in shopping behaviour areâ&#x20AC;Ś By perceived income level
By income source
Buying smaller quantities as usual
Buying smaller quantities as usual
Started or increased the use of online ordering or delivery services
Buying cheaper or less preferred foods
Buying larger quantities than usual
Going to different stores
Started or increased the use of online ordering or delivery services
Buying cheaper or less preferred foods
Buying larger quantities than usual
Going to different stores
Well below average
Government assistance
Below average
Own business/trade
Average
Salaried work
Above average
Petty trade
Well above average
Informal daily/casual labour
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 11
MARKETS Food Prices
Availability Staple Foods
Fresh Foods
Hygiene Items
Medicines
June 2020
April 2020
June 2020
April 2020
June 2020
April 2020
June 2020
April 2020
Always Available
↑ 83%
63%
↑71%
52%
↑85%
61%
↑55%
37%
Partially/ sometimes available
↓15%
30%
↓25%
38%
↓13%
31%
↓30%
41%
Not available
↓1%
2%
↓1%
2%
↓1%
3%
↓2%
4%
Don’t know
↓2%
5%
↓4%
8%
↓2%
5%
↓15%
18%
Respondents indicated that key items are usually available in stores and markets, though they appear to be somewhat less available than normal, particularly medicines. Compared to the April 2020 survey round, more respondents indicated that staple foods, fresh foods, medicines and hygiene items were “always” available. As with the first survey round, fresh foods appear to marginally less available than staple foods. Medicines were reported by 55% of respondents as “always” available, with 15% not knowing either way. “Go to the nearest supermarket and improvise.”
% of respondents reporting an increase in food prices 78% 59%
June 2020
April 2020
Food prices appear to be increasing, with 78% of respondents reporting an increase in the cost of food, compared to 59% in April. The percentage of respondents reporting an increase in food prices is relatively high across all surveyed countries, ranging from about 68% to 92%. The countries with the highest percentages of respondents reporting an increase in food prices are Saint Lucia, Jamaica, Sint Maarten, Curacao and Turks and Caicos Islands. The lowest percentages were found in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis and the Cayman Islands.
“Food shortage and loss of remittances” “Only trouble i have with this pandemic there is no work and no food and i can't provide nothing to eat for my child and stepchild” “Lack of meat and vegetables available from stores.” Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 12
FOOD SECURITY Food consumption Which statement best reflects your food situation over the past 7 days? 44%
I had no difficulties eating enough I skipped meals or ate less than usual
I ate less preferred foods
I went one whole day without eating
I increased my food intake
58%
There were also differences in responses across age groups. A third of respondents aged 26–40 reported skipping meals or eating less, compared to 10% of those over 60, most of whom (67%) reported having no difficulties eating enough.
A greater percentage of people living alone or with immediate family reported having no difficulties eating enough, compared to single-parent households and those living with extended family and non-family members. Responses from women and men were similar.
27% 16% 21% 20% 5%
1% 2%
Jun-20 Apr-20
4%
When asked about their food situation in the week prior to the survey, most respondents reported consuming less or changing their diet. While 44% indicated that they had no difficulties eating enough, 27% skipped meals or ate less than usual (compared to 17% in April). About one-fifth indicated they ate less preferred foods, which is the same as the April survey round. For respondents classifying themselves as having well below average income, only 11% reported having no difficulties eating enough. The majority skipped meals or ate less, and 16% went a whole day without eating. By contrast, threequarters of respondents describing their income as above or well above average indicated that they had no difficulty eating enough.
“Not working means no salary. Food running low and bill collectors are calling. I have to choose between feeding my family and paying bills” “Lost my job and could not help contribute to paying rent and buying food.”
“Limited options in shopping not because it's not available but I want to interact with the least number of individuals.” “…It is very difficult to buy food as no one in the house is working. I am afraid that one of these days I might not have food to give my three children.” “I lost my job and had to beg for food so I can survive for the day with my family…”
“During such time, we have monitored the amount of income spent, as well as the amount of food we consume…”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 13
FOOD SECURITY Food consumption Which statement best reflects your food situation over the past 7 days? I went one whole day without eating
By perceived income level Well below average
16%
53%
20%
11% 1%
I skipped meals or ate less than usual I ate less preferred foods
Below average
7%
Average
2%
39%
30%
22%
2%
I had no difficulties eating enough I increased my food intake
20%
21%
55%
2%
By sex Female 5%
28%
Male 5%
21%
25%
43%
21%
47%
3% 2%
Above average
1% 7% 13%
75%
4%
Well above average
3% 10% 10%
73%
4%
By age group 25 and under
6%
26 - 40
7%
41 - 60
3%
Over 60
32% 34% 22%
1% 10%
By income sources
18%
40%
22%
34%
22%
50%
20%
4% 2% 2%
67%
2%
Petty trade
13%
Family and friends
10%
Informal daily/ casual labour
10%
Remittances 5%
By household composition Mixed
8%
Single parent
8%
Immediate family
4%
24%
Alone
5%
23%
39%
21%
33%
25% 22% 18%
48% 53%
45% 46% 41%
3%
33%
2%
Salaried work
2%
Own business/ trade
4%
3% 19%
2%
21%
20%
2%
22%
2%
24%
34% 24%
22%
25%
27%
Government 6% assistance
30%
18%
42%
21% 20% 21%
36% 49% 55%
1% 3% 2% 3%
3%
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 14
FOOD SECURITY Food stocks Does your household have any food stock? 54% More than 1 week 81%
While women and men reported similar stock levels, there are some variations across age groups. More respondents over 40 had at least one week of food compared to those 40 and under. The percentage of households with more than two weeks of stocks was also much higher for respondents over 60. Does your household have any food stock?
33% Less than 1 week 16% 13% No 3%
By sex No.
Yes. Less than one week
More than one week
Jun-20 Apr-20
Female Male
Most respondents had at least one weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of food, but people reported having less food at home compared to the April survey round. This may be explained by governments lifting curfews and similar restrictions in May/June, which had motivated people to stock up on food. The percentage of households without food stocks increased from 3% in the April survey round to 13% in June. One-third of respondents reported having less than a weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth of stocks, compared to 16% in the first survey round. While in April half of respondents had at least two weeks worth of food, in June 18% of respondents did. People describing their income as below or well below average reported having less food at home. Nearly a third indicated that their household had no food stocks, compared to 3% of those classifying their income as well above average.
14% 11%
33% 32%
53% 56%
Estimated number of food insecure in the Caribbean Using the survey responses and poverty data from English-speaking CARICOM states, it is estimated that 407,000 people across the English-speaking Caribbean are severely food insecure, and 2.5 million are moderately food insecure (out of a total population of 7.5 million). While the number of severely food insecure has remained constant, this is a substantial increase in the number of moderately food insecure estimated by the first survey (1.3 million). This estimate does not include Haiti given the few number of survey responses or non-CARICOM countries (Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten).
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 15
FOOD SECURITY Food stocks Does your household have any food stock? No.
Yes. Less than one week
Yes. More than one week
By age group 25 and under
15%
26 - 40
15%
41 - 60
51%
39% 29%
Well below average Below average
34%
12%
By perceived income level
46%
Average Above average
46%
18%
24%
44%
7%
28%
38% 65%
3% 19%
78%
60% Well above average
Over 60 7%
31%
19%
9%
21%
70%
75%
By income sources By household composition Petty trade Single parent Mixed
19%
36%
16%
Immediate family
12%
Alone
11%
46%
43% 31% 27%
40% 57% 62%
“There is no work and no food and I can’t provide anything to eat for my child and stepchild .”
27%
Friends and family
23%
Informal daily/ casual labour
20%
Government assistance
18%
Remittances
11%
Salaried work
11%
Own business/trade
40%
7%
33%
43%
33%
47%
34%
36%
47%
39% 31% 26%
50% 58% 67%
“Last of money, while studying and now lack of food.” Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 16
LIVELIHOODS Disruptions to livelihoods Was your ability to carry out livelihood activities affected in the last 2 weeks?
% of respondents reporting that their ability to carry out livelihood activities was affected
By sex
74% 54%
June 2020
Female
53%
47%
Male
57%
43%
yes
April 2020
no
By age group
The COVID 19 pandemic continues to disrupt livelihoods, with 54% of respondents stating their ability to pursue their livelihood was affected in the two weeks preceding the survey. This finding has decreased from the April survey, when 73% of respondents indicated their livelihood had been disrupted. The most marked differences are found across income groups, with 73% of the respondents who described their income as well below average reporting livelihood disruptions, compared to 35% of those respondents classifying their income as well above average. About two-thirds of respondents with less stable household income sources (e.g. informal labour, petty trade, support from friends and family) reported their livelihoods being affected compared to half of those in households with salaried income. People living with extended family and non-family members appear to be most widely affected, while people living alone appear to be least impacted. There are some differences across age groups, with respondents over 60 less frequently reporting livelihood disruptions compared to the other age groups. The regional averages did not differ between women and men.
25 and under
57%
43%
26 - 40
59%
41%
41 - 60
51%
49%
Over 60
39%
61%
yes
no
By household composition Mixed
64%
36%
Single parent
56%
44%
Immediate family
53%
47%
Alone
42%
58%
yes
no
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 17
LIVELIHOODS Livelihood disruptions
Reasons for livelihood disruptions
Was your ability to carry out livelihood activities affected in the last 2 weeks? By perceived income level Well below average
73%
27%
Below average
66%
34%
Average
49%
51%
Above average
36%
64%
Well above average
35%
65%
yes
While movement restrictions were the primary reason for disruptions to livelihood activities, a lower percentage of those whose livelihoods were affected (41%) cited this factor compared to the April survey (69%). The second most common reasons were expensive or inaccessible livelihood inputs and reduced demand for goods/services, which were cited respectively by petty traders and business owners in particular. Those classifying their income as below or well below average more commonly cited the cost or accessibility of livelihoods inputs compared to those with higher incomes. Transport was also a factor for some, especially for respondents aged 25 and under. For those who reported livelihood disruptions, the main reasons wereâ&#x20AC;Ś
no
Multiple choices could be selected.
By income sources Informal daily/ casual labour
70%
30%
Friends and family
67%
33%
Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
21%
Petty trade
66%
34%
Reduced demand for goods/services
21%
Government assistance
56%
44%
Transport limitations
Own business/trade
55%
45%
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Remittances
52%
48%
Salaried work
50%
50%
yes
Movement restrictions
40%
16% 11%
No market to sell products
8%
Increased demand for goods/services
8%
no Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 18
LIVELIHOODS Reasons for livelihood disruptions For those who reported livelihood disruptions, the main reasons were… By age group
By sex Movement restrictions
Movement restrictions
No market to sell products
Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Reduced demand for goods/ services
Transport limitations
Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
No market to sell products
Reduced demand for goods/ services
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Transport limitations
Male Female 25 and under 26 - 40
“I can’t work due to the care of my child.” “Had to close down business for good, the sudden nature of the pandemic placed a huge financial burden on us, one we could not continue”
41 - 60 Over 60
“loss of income. Both my jobs are Tourism based.” Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 19
LIVELIHOODS Reasons for livelihood disruptions For those who reported livelihood disruptions, the main reasons wereâ&#x20AC;Ś By household composition
By perceived income level Movement restrictions
Movement restrictions Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
No market to sell products
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Reduced demand for goods/ services
Transport limitations
Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
No market to sell products
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Reduced demand for goods/ services
Transport limitations
Well above average Immediate family Single parent Mixed Alone
Above average Average Below average Well below average
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 20
LIVELIHOODS Reasons for livelihood disruptions
For those who reported livelihood disruptions, the main reasons were… By income sources
“As a consultant and entrepreneur I lost all leads. But then got a fulltime job at an university.” “Loss of weekend small business income.”
Movement restrictions Livelihoods inputs are too expensive or inaccessible
No market to sell products
Livelihoods inputs are unavailable
Reduced demand for goods/ services
Transport limitations
Informal daily/ casual labour Petty trade Government assistance
“My inability to return to work in the UK, as my employer took the decision not to continue paying my salary, thereby causing me to build up considerable debt with regards to mortgage and bills.
“I have more work and procedures because I work in the healthcare industry.” “Being the owner of a hotel means no income for an extended period. Currently I am diversifying with farming. Supporting my family and community by instilling hope and looking at the silver lining that this too shall pass.” “..Now I’m having it so hard to get food in my house. My husband is the only one working. It is really hard forme because one week we have enough food and the other week are hungry…” “I have been using all of my pension to help put food, etc. in the house…” “I will cook in bulk on Sundays and store my food for when I am ready. Eat porridge or corn flakes in the night time to save the cook food for the other days” “My main concern at this point, we are worried of scarcity of food supply due to this pandemic.”
Own business/trade Salaried work Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 21
LIVELIHOODS Income changes Impacts on income are widespread, with 69% reporting that their household has experienced job loss or reduced salaries since the COVID-19 outbreak. This figure is an increase from the April survey (48%), suggesting a deepening crisis with more people facing decreased income as the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic continue. The most marked differences in responses were found across income groups. Job loss or reduced income was reported by the vast majority of respondents describing their household income as well below average (88%) or below average (83%), compared to about half of those describing their income as above or well above average. Respondents with household income from petty trade, informal labour and support from friends and family more widely reported job loss/reduced income compared to those with salaries. Those citing more than one household income source less frequently reported this change compared to others. The survey findings suggest some differences across age groups, with respondents aged 40 and under reporting job losses/reduced salaries in their households more frequently than those aged 41-60. Those over 60 most commonly reported no changes in household income. Fewer singleperson households (52%) reported impacts compared to households with partners, children and extended family (69– 76%). Responses did not vary between women and men.
Has your household income changed since the COVID-19 outbreak? 69%
Loss of jobs or reduced salaries Had to resort to secondary or alternative activities
No change
Increased employment or revenues
48% 6% 6% 23% 46% 1% 1%
Jun-20 Apr-20
“I had to resign from my job as school is close and no one to supervise my child. Therefore my husband is the only one working. I'm also trying to find something online to earn so form of income until school opens and hopefully I find a next job.” “I had to learn a new skill to be able to find another source of income and with the pandemic I was concerned for my health and my clients how ever going outside needed to be done to survive.”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 22
LIVELIHOODS Income changes Has your household income changed since the COVID-19 outbreak? Loss of jobs or reduced salaries
Had to resort to secondary or alternative activities
No change
By income group Increased employment or revenues
69%
Average 6%
24%
70%
7%
22%
1%
By age group 25 and under
74%
26 - 40
76%
19%
63%
7%
Well above average
51%
5%
47%
30%
1%
42%
3%
<1%
47%
3%
1%
6%
66% 45%
7% 7%
17% 27%
47%
1%
Informal daily/ casual labour
87%
6% 6% 1%
Petty trade
87%
8% 6%
1% 1% Friends and family
By household composition Mixed
76%
8%
Immediate family
70%
6%
Single parent
69%
8%
Alone
8% 9% <1%
83%
By income sources
41 - 60
Over 60
6%
7% 4% <1%
1% Above average
Male
88%
Below average
By sex Female
Well below average
14% 23%
2% 1%
Own business/ trade
76%
Government assistance
74%
Salaried work
52%
5%
43%
22%
9% 6% 1%
84%
9%
7%
64%
4%
13%
19%
<1%
1%
31%
<1% <1%
Remittances
47%
11%
38%
4%
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 23
LIVELIHOODS Farming and fishing Nearly one in four respondents produce food or raise livestock, and 5% are engaged in fisheries/coastal activities. In both cases these activities are primarily for their own consumption. Most of these respondents earn income from salaries, and one in ten pursue their own business or trade. Of those engaged in fishing/coastal activities, 13% have household income from informal and casual labour. The pandemic seems to have led to an increase in gardening and household production, with 39% of respondents indicating that they have increased the amount of time spent on these activities. While farming households are similar to the survey average on key metrics of well-being, households engaging in fishing seem to have been more adversely affected by disruptions related to COVID-19. For example, they report above average values for loss of jobs/reduced salary, difficulties in eating enough food, worrying about food needs and expecting their livelihood to be severely affected. More information about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted Caribbean small-scale fisheries and what solutions and adaptation methods are being used to ensure the continuity of livelihoods has been shared through resources and a regional webinar. CARICOM and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) are conducting a more in-depth assessment and analysis of the impacts of COVID-19 on agricultural livelihoods, production and food systems.
Households engaging in farming/fishing 92% No 75% 4% Yes, for consumption 17% 0% Yes, for sale 1%
Yes, for both sale and consumption
1% 5%
Fishing/coastal activities Food production/livestock raising
“I work within the tourism sector and i am anxious as to how we will adapt in the coming months.” “Decrease in salary means you cannot get a loan extension, because they think your job is unsure. Hence not being able to make ends meet” “So far my life has not changed in terms of my income but cost of living has increased therefore I now have an increase in my expenditure and less savings” Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 24
LIVELIHOODS Future livelihood impacts Respondents believe that the COVID-19 pandemic will impact their livelihoods in the future. Looking ahead, 48% anticipate “moderate to severe” or “severe” impacts to their livelihoods, which is in line with the April survey results. Only 7% expect little or no impact. Respondents with different levels of income varied substantially in their perspectives. Of those with incomes perceived as well below average, 55% expect their livelihoods to be severely impacted in the future, compared to 10% of those with well above average income. While the vast majority of respondents anticipate at least some impacts regardless of their sources of income, those with salaried income predicted less severe livelihood impacts. Respondents with household income from petty trade or receiving support from family/friends anticipate the most severe impacts.
Looking ahead, how do you expect your livelihood will be impacted as result of disruptions from COVID-19?
< 50% 50 – 60 % > 60%
24%
Severe impact
20%
The percentages of respondents predicting moderate or severe impacts were highest in Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Lucia and Sint Maarten. Trends between men and women and across age groups are largely consistent, though respondents under 60 years of age anticipate more severe impacts, likely because those over 60 are not as active in the labour market.
24%
Moderate to severe impact
27% 24%
Moderate impact
22% 21%
Some impact
Little or no impact
% of respondents who reported “moderate to severe” and “severe” impact on their livelihoods
22% 7% 10%
Jun-20 Apr-20 Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 25
LIVELIHOODS Future livelihood impacts How do you expect your livelihood will be impacted as a result of disruptions from COVID-19? Severe impact
Moderate to severe impact
Moderate impact
Some impact
Little or no impact
By sex Female
24%
23%
Male
24%
25%
20%
23%
26 - 40
27%
41 - 60
25%
Over 60
13%
22%
21%
25%
19%
27% 26%
23% 17%
Well below average
8%
23% 23%
21% 30%
Mixed
29% 26%
Alone
23%
Immediate family
23%
26%
18%
24% 20% 24%
25% 21% 25%
16%
30% 24%
19% 25% 21%
11% 7% 3%
23% 28%
14% 4% 25%
7%
7%
8%
8% 15%
20%
23%
29%
Above average
11%
Well above average
10%
16% 15%
7% 6% 11% 7%
30%
31%
20%
12%
34%
21%
By income sources
18% 6%
23%
26%
Average
Informal daily/ casual labour Friends and family
40%
21%
38%
23%
Petty trade
33%
Government assistance
32%
Own business/ trade
32%
By household composition Single parent
55%
Below average
By age group 25 and under
By perceived income level
Remittances Salaried work
29% 22%
21% 14%
23%
15%
21%
21%
27% 21% 21%
15% 4% 16% 25% 15%
22% 21% 25%
10% 4% 10%
15% 4% 19%
10%
24%
8%
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 26
WIDER IMPACTS
By age groups
Main worries Unemployment and loss of income were the main worry of half of respondents, regardless of sex and age of the respondent, household composition or perceived level of income. The inability to cover food or other essential needs was a main concern of those with below or well below average income (47-60%), and a substantial proportion of single parent or mixed households (38-49%) and among respondents aged 40 or younger (37-45%). Single person (alone) households, those in the highest income category and respondents aged 25 or younger were most likely to worry about social isolation. Respondents aged 60 and above worried more than others about the need to resort to savings and, alongside households in the highest income bracket, also about movement restrictions.
By household composition
Immediate family
A marginal share of respondents (0-6%) was mainly worried about violence or the inability to access services.
By sex
By perceived income levels
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 27
WIDER IMPACTS Unpaid care and work The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the amount of time people are spending on unpaid care and domestic work. Most respondents reduced time spent shopping, which was reported by 55% overall and 72% whose income was well below average. While domestic work increased among nearly half of respondents, the increase was most prevalent among households with the highest income levels (44%) and female survey respondents (54%) compared to their male counterparts (47%).
Has the time that you spend on any of the unpaid activities below changed since the COVID-19 outbreak?
By household composition
A greater proportion of women also reported an increase in duties related to childcare (46%) compared to men (35%). Single parent households in particular are experiencing a significant increase in childcare (57%) and domestic work (51%) when compared to other types of households. The COVID-19 pandemic also seems to have increased households’ engagement in gardening/subsistence production and affected time spent supporting the community.
“The hardest part has both of us working demanding full-time jobs from home while simultaneously having to homeschool, provide childcare, do all the cleaning and cook every meal.” “Homeschooling is difficult to manage in a single parent household. As a parent, you want the children in school but you fear a resurgence of the virus” “Having to care for my elderly mother and doing her shopping and all her errands and adding more money to her household so she would have food security.”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 28
WIDER IMPACTS Unpaid care and work By perceived income level
By sex
“Homeschooling and working from home was my biggest challenge. It's been three months doing both and I'm still not fully adapted to it.” “Presently taking care of my baby alone, since her daddy is stuck at sea for two month now. I'm trying my best to make the sacrifice for my four month old baby.” “Working from home with a baby and a toddler was rough. There were many days I cried as I longed to be at work...”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 29
WIDER IMPACTS How people are coping and adapting Respondents were given the opportunity to give more nuanced insights on how they are coping and adapting to the disruptions caused by COVID-19. Out of the 5,708 respondents, 1,905 (33%) responded to the open-ended questions. An analysis of the responses by WFP Caribbean, in collaboration with Google’s Artificial Intelligence Unit, was able to categorise and interpret the degree of positive and negative emotions within the responses. Distribution of sentiments across open-ended survey responses Very Negative (35%)
Negative (46%)
June 2020 Very Negative (3%)
Negative (63%)
April 2020
Positive (6%)
Neutral (11%) Very Positive (2%) Neutral (21%) Positive (11%) Very Positive (2%)
People’s comments are more negative compared to the April 2020 survey, suggesting the wide ranging impacts of COVID-19 and measures to contain it are taking a toll on people’s lives. As with the first round, respondents expressed anxiety and fear with regards to interruptions to their livelihoods and reduced income. They described disruption to their or their children’s education due to the closure of institutions. Some also expressed concerns about their inability to pay tuition in order to continue their studies for those schools/institutions that have remained open. Other themes included challenges accessing food and medicines, eating less, adapting to working from home, balancing work and childcare, and concerns about mental well-being. Mental health and stress were often mentioned as respondents described uncertainty surrounding future employment, especially those who are employed within the tourism sector.
Some sample responses: Very negative (35%) “I was unable to attend my mom’s funeral due to cancelation of flights to Trinidad and I'm unemployed and financially unstable” “I was left without any kind of income. It has been difficult to get food. simply getting food has been very difficult. I have tried to get a day of work but it has not only been me, there have been many people.”
Negative (46%) “Stressed out and not eating healthy. Sold most of my belongings to cover bills and rent.” “Diminished mental health” “I'm a craft and souvenir retailer. I'm home over 4 months now because my business is not essential. Tourism is dead right now.”
Neutral (11%)
“Coping ok i think. Have no real desire to socialize” “Well there is not much anyone could do but just have faith” “Working from home was a big adjustment but after adjusting to the new normal it was liveable.”
Positive (6%) “My family is adapting to meeting friends and family online, and to having to engage in social distancing when going outside”
Very Positive (2%)
“The changes brings me closer to most of my family members but also it teaches me a huge lesson on poverty and saving.”
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 30
CHALLENGES FACING MIGRANTS Spanish-speaking respondents in Trinidad and Tobago The survey was available in English, French and Spanish. Nearly one in ten survey respondents has been identified as Spanish speaking, and out of these 89% are residing in Trinidad and Tobago. They offer valuable insights into the impact of COVID-19 on Venezuelan migrants, of which about nearly 19,000 are currently registered with UNHCR in the country. Across most key metrics on well-being, the responses of Spanish-speakers residing in Trinidad and Tobago differ significantly from those of English speakers and from the survey averages in the region, which is indicative of the precariousness of their current situation. A significantly higher percentage of Spanish-speaking respondents (59% compared to 25% of English-speakers) reported limited access to markets. Overall, they are nearly four times more likely to be engaged in informal/casual labour as their main source of income, and between two to three times more likely to worry about meeting their food or other essential needs. A much higher proportion reported loss of jobs/reduced income, skipping/reducing meals or going a whole day without eating. More than one in three anticipate that their livelihood will be severely impacted by COVID-19, compared to a quarter of English-speaking respondents in Trinidad and Tobago or the Caribbean at large. The results highlight the need for a more in-depth understanding of the impacts of COVID-19 on the food security and livelihood situation of this population in the region. More information on Venezuelan migrants in Trinidad and Tobago is available through the Response for Venezuela (R4V) dashboard.
In the past 7 days, was there a time when your household could not access the markets? * Spanish
59%
41%
* English
25%
75%
yes
no
* of respondents from Trinidad and Tobago.
How do you expect your livelihood will be impacted as a result of disruptions from COVID-19? Spanish
36%
English
26%
19%
23%
21%
18%
22%
17%
6%
10%
Severe impact Moderate to severe impact Moderate impact Some impact Little to no impact
Which statement best reflects your food situation over the past 7 days? Spanish
English
16%
7%
54%
26% I I I I I
19%
22%
7% 1%
47%
2%
went one whole day without eating skipped meals or ate less than usual ate less preferred food had no difficulties eating enough (normal pattern) increased my food intake
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 31
CONCLUSION In June 2020, many measures put in place by governments in the Caribbean to curb the spread of the coronavirus had been eased in response to decreasing COVID-19 cases. While many economic and commercial activities resumed, the broader impacts of the pandemic on how people live, work and meet their basic needs have continued â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the toll on incomes and food security appears to be worsening.
Disruptions to peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s livelihoods remain widespread, with even more respondents facing job loss or decreased incomes in their households compared to April. These trends appear most severe for people already in precarious economic situations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; low-income households and those with income from casual labour, petty trade or receiving support from others, as well as migrants. Impacts to food consumption are also most acute with these groups, with a worrying number of respondents reducing what they eat. The number of people estimated to be moderately food insecure across the region has grown substantially since the April 2020 survey. The pandemic is shifting life at home, with time spent on domestic work and childcare increasing, particularly for women. Further country-level analysis may reveal greater differences in how men and women are being impacted. With COVID-19 bringing a near halt to tourism and disrupting commercial activities, governments across the Caribbean have introduced policies and programmes to assist people losing incomes and to support food security. With negative impacts deepening even as restrictions ease, it is critical to support and expand these measures, prioritizing those who are most vulnerable to the socio-economic impacts of the pandemic.
Common themes on how respondents are adapting and coping
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 32
ANNEX. REGIONAL OVERVIEWS Food situation
Market Access In the past 7 days, has there been a time when you or your household could not access the markets/grocery stores?
Which statement best reflects your food situation over the past 7 days?
Trinidad and Tobago
42%
58%
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos Islands
39%
61%
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Bermuda
39%
61%
Jamaica
38%
62%
Belize
38%
62%
Guyana
32%
68%
Dominica
31%
69%
Antigua and Barbuda
29%
71%
Saint Lucia
29%
71%
Sint Maarten
28%
72%
Belize 3%
Grenada
27%
73%
Barbados 3%
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
23%
78%
Cayman Islands
17%
83%
Barbados
16%
84%
Saint Kitts and Nevis
15%
85%
13%
88%
9%
91%
Curacao Aruba
yes
no
Jamaica
11%
42%
8%
38%
10%
36%
22%
24%
16%
1%
38%
21%
31%
3%
Saint Lucia
7%
31%
22%
38%
2%
Antigua and Barbuda
7%
31%
24%
37%
1%
Sint Maarten 3%
33%
Grenada 5%
30%
Dominica 6%
29%
Guyana 5%
28%
Turks and Caicos Islands
7%
20% 20%
22%
12% 18%
Bermuda 2%11% 17%
1% 10% 25% I I I I
2%
37%
2%
40%
2%
32%
32%
4%
30%
35%
3%
17%
Curacao 2%12% 15%
Aruba
43%
25%
29%
Cayman Islands 2% 18%
3%
25%
25%
Saint Kitts and Nevis 3% 21%
40%
55% 61% 53% 66% 68% 60%
2% 3% 8% 5% 2% 4%
went one whole day without eating skipped meals and ate less than usual ate less preferred foods had no difficulties eatting enough
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 33
ANNEX. REGIONAL OVERVIEWS Livelihood disruptions
Income changes
Was your ability to carry out livelihoods activities affected in the last 2 weeks?
Has your household income changed since the COVID-19 outbreak?
35%
65%
35%
63%
37%
Saint Lucia
61%
39%
Turks and Caicos Islands
61%
39%
Belize
61%
39%
1%
Jamaica
60%
40%
1%
Cayman Islands
56%
44%
Grenada
55%
45%
3%
Dominica
53%
47%
2%
Sint Maarten
52%
48%
81%
4% 13% 3%
Saint Lucia
80%
4% 16%
Sint Maarten
79%
3% 14% 3%
Turks and Caicos
78%
4% 19%
Trinidad and Tobago
77%
8% 14%
Antigua and Barbuda
76%
7% 16%
Belize
76%
9% 14%
Jamaica
74%
8% 16%
Dominica
69%
10%
Saint Kitts and Nevis
68%
3% 26%
Guyana
65%
Aruba
1%
21%
Trinidad and Tobago Antigua and Barbuda
Guyana
63%
11%
Curacao
63%
5%
31%
2%
Saint Kitts and Nevis
50%
50%
Barbados
62%
5%
33%
1%
Barbados
46%
54%
Grenada
61%
8%
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
45%
55%
Saint Vincent and the Grenadine
59%
11%
Curacao
43%
57%
Cayman Islands
58%
2%
2%
Bermuda
43%
57%
2%
Aruba
42%
58%
Bermuda
49%
4%
24%
27%
4%
30% 38% 45%
Loss of jobs/reduced salaries Hard to resort to secondary income sources No change Increased employment
yes
no
Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 34
METHODOLOGY AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The second round of the CARICOM Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security and Livelihoods impact survey was launched via a webform, which was accessible on mobile/smartphone and PC/desktop. The data collection period was inclusive of 14 June to 1 July 2020. The survey was circulated via email, social media, SMS, media and other communication channels. The World Food Programme (WFP) performed the data collection, monitoring and analysis. Responses were visualised live on an interactive dashboard and monitored to ensure their legitimacy based on cross referencing with prior knowledge and secondary data. Data validation methods were designed into the survey form to mitigate against intentional or unintentional outliers. The qualitative analysis was performed in collaboration with Joseph Xu from Google’s AI unit using Natural Language Processing (NLP). NLP, a branch of AI which analyses and interprets human languages, provided: (a) a sentiment analysis to determine the number of positive versus negative responses and (b) auto-categorisation of responses. To moderate the nonrepresentative nature of the data, the analysis team further refined the classifications presented by the algorithms.
Link to survey https://arcg.is/0aiX9f
Dashboard for Smartphones https://arcg.is/0aiX9f
WFP expresses warm appreciation to Flow and Digicel for distributing the survey link by SMS. Special thanks to the International Telecommunication Union for their support in facilitating the SMS distribution. Thanks to UNHCR for their support with the Spanish translation of the survey. This report was prepared by WFP Caribbean – Amy Chong, Elisaveta Gouretskaia, Darko Petrovic, Nicholas Grainger, Sarah Bailey and Regis Chapman, with support by Rossella Bottone from WFP’s Regional Bureau Panama. Dashboard for PCs/Laptops|https://arcg.is/1vPC4O Caribbean COVID-19 Food Security & Livelihoods Impact Survey Report | July 2020 | 35
This page intentionally left blank.
UNITED NATIONS WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME Office for Emergency Preparedness and Response in the Caribbean UN House, Marine Gardens Christ Church Barbados Regis Chapman | Head of Office Tel: +1 246 467 6085 Email: wfp.barbados@wfp.org Website: https://www.wfp.org/countries/caribbean CARICOM Caribbean Community Secretariat Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown PO Box 10827 Guyana Shaun Baugh | Programme Manager, Agricultural & Agro-Industrial Development Tel: +592 222 0134 Email: shaun.baugh@caricom.org Website: https://www.caricom.org
Funded by
Cover photo credit: WFP/Amy Chong